Benicia Magazine

03/28/2026

“While sorting newly donated items to the museum, volunteers came across the recollections of William I. Tustin (1820 -1897), Benicia’s first resident. It is a copy of a handwritten 1880 document in the Bancroft Library at UC Berkeley.

IT IS A SNAPSHOT OF THE FOUNDING OF BENICIA. TUSTIN WROTE:
In the spring or forepart of the summer of 1847 I left and went down to Sonoma. While camping there I heard that they were laying out a town on the Strait of Carquinez so concluded to drive over there which I did. When I arrived O’Farrell and his surveying party were just leaving. The first arrival was Dr. Semple, the founder of the town. I concluded to stay. I picked out some lots, making arrangements with the Dr. for their payment, and commenced to build a house, the first one ever erected in Benicia. It was an adobe house and is now standing. That was in 1847.”

Read article by By James E. Lessenger, MD
Research Historian, Museum of History Benicia, at:
https://www.beniciamagazine.com/tustins-recollections/

03/24/2026

Benicia’s literary community includes anyone interested in reading and writing. The unspoken spirit of BLA is to support one another in their various literary efforts. Gathering at readings, workshops, in writing groups, and at social events furthers that sense of community. BLA also supports Benicia Reads and the Farmer’s Market.

Writing workshops and groups that meet regularly enable writers to learn how to hone their skills. Readings featuring published writers expose attendees to different genres and new ideas. BLA has been approached by Alibi Books and overseers of the McCune Collection in the Vallejo Public Library to expand our outreach and co-host programs in Vallejo.
https://www.beniciamagazine.com/benicia-literary-arts/

Want to get involved?
Become a member! You will find everything you need to get started at: benicialiteraryarts.org. Questions? Email [email protected].

Visit the Benicia Magazine Patreon page to view a full Q&A with Board Members Jim White (past BLA president), Becky White (secretary of BLA), Beth Tarpley (treasurer), Ken Weichel, and Lois Requist (past BLA president).
https://www.patreon.com/cw/benicia_magazine

Benicia Literary Arts will be publishing a new title later this spring. A stunning publication full of beautiful photos, Land of My Enchantment is a memoir from Deborah Bachels Schmidt detailing her childhood in New Mexico.

03/21/2026

Spring has arrived in Benicia 🌷
The season of fresh starts, blooming beauty, and longer, sun-kissed days is finally here.

It’s a season to slow down, step outside, and soak in the simple joys all around us.

Hello, spring… we’ve been waiting for you 💐

ShopLocalBenicia VisitBenicia

03/18/2026

“If you’re craving ocean air and a change of pace, Bodega Bay is an easy and rewarding escape from Benicia. Just about a 90-minute drive—scenic the whole way—it’s best to head out early, as Highway 37 tends to fill up fast. Trust me, it’s worth the early alarm.”

“I love stopping in Sebastopol in the afternoon—it’s charming, creative, and just the right blend of relaxed and lively. Great restaurants, galleries, and quirky shops make it a perfect place to wander without an agenda.”

https://www.beniciamagazine.com/bodega-bay-sebastopol/

03/14/2026

In Benicia, spring doesn’t arrive all at once. It shows up in pieces.

A warmer afternoon that invites an after-dinner walk. Kids tugging at sleeves because they don’t need jackets anymore. Blossoms are noticed first by little eyes, then by the rest of us. The Bay does that thing where it hints at what’s coming without fully committing, and somehow that makes the season even sweeter.

Read this article by for a simple Spring Craft Jar activity and easy one pan pasta dinner recipe at:
https://www.beniciamagazine.com/what-spring-teaches-our-kids/

03/12/2026

A new community tradition is hitting the streets of Benicia this spring. The Rotary Club of Benicia and the Benicia Chamber of Commerce Wellness Alliance are proud to announce the inaugural Great Benicia Run, taking place Sunday, April 12.

Designed to welcome participants of all ages and fitness levels, the event features four race options: a 5K, 10K, Kids’ 1-Mile, and Kids’ Mini Run. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or a family looking for a fun morning out, the Great Benicia Run offers a chance to get moving while enjoying the beauty of the community.

Proceeds raised through Benicia Rotary will support the Benicia Unified School District’s STEAM program, helping expand hands-on learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics for local elementary students. Funds raised will directly benefit classroom innovation and enrichment.

Read more at:
https://www.beniciamagazine.com/great-benicia-run/

Follow for updates.

SIGN UP AT: HTTPS://RUNSIGNUP.COM/RACE/CA/BENICIA/GREATBENICIARUN

03/09/2026

In a world where motherhood can feel all-consuming and isolating, finding your people matters. This Benicia-based mom duo is doing just that, building community through two simple but powerful shared hobbies: fitness and reading.

Their fitness and book club, Fit Mom Book Club, offers more than workouts or buddy reads; they create space for connection, honesty, and support through every season of life. From early motherhood to moments of transition and growth, this club reminds us that showing up together can make life feel a little lighter and a lot less lonely.

Read the interview with Bekah and Sophie here:
https://www.beniciamagazine.com/building-your-village/

Follow them on Instagram and Tiktok and keep an eye out for their podcast in the near future!

03/05/2026

Linda Fleming
An exhibition of artwork, A Library of Ideas by sculptor Linda Fleming, opens on March 1, in the Marilyn Citron O’Rourke Gallery at the Benicia Public Library. The exhibition consists of 21 free-standing and 10 wall-mounted maquettes, small-scale three-dimensional models that represent the conceptual and physical model for her celebrated large-scale sculptures.

📆 The exhibition will be on view from March 1 through April 13, 2026, during regular library hours. There will be a reception for the artist on Sunday, March 22 from 3 to 5 pm to which the public is invited.

Read the article about Linda Fleming at:
https://www.beniciamagazine.com/linda-fleming-a-library-of-ideas/

For more information about Linda Fleming, visit
https://www.lindaflemingsculpture.com/. For library hours, visit https://benicialibrary.org/.

03/05/2026

We love this story from Benicia Magazine - Check out West Coast Beauty Co. at their location behind the Chamber of Commerce! 🩷

Repost: From passion to purpose

Discover how one local entrepreneur turned homegrown beginnings into meaningful community impact, proving that beauty can go far beyond the surface.

Read the inspiring story here of .amberclemons from .co at: https://www.beniciamagazine.com/from-homegrown-roots-to-community-impact/

03/02/2026